The graduates completed a 10-month program, attending classes Monday through Thursday and doing more than 600 hours of field work.

The California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office recently recognized Crafton Hills College’s paramedic program as a Strong Workforce Star, according to a press release from the college. Criteria for becoming a Strong Workforce Star are a substantial increase in earnings, attainment of a living wage and a job closely matched with the field of study for graduates. Crafton has a 96 percent employment rate, according to the press release.

Run under the auspices of the emergency medical services division, the Crafton Hills College paramedic program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions.

Crafton Hills College in Yucaipa, one of the 115 colleges in the California community college system, offers more than 50 degree programs and 25 career certificates.